Middlesbrough have registered their interest in signing Aston Villa defender James Chester according to a report from Football Insider. 

Chester has struggled for game time since Villa won promotion into the Premier League last season, and could be tempted by a move elsewhere.

The Welshman has made just two senior appearances for Aston Villa this season, which will certainly be frustrating for the defender.

He captained Villa in the 2018/19 season and made 28 appearances in total for Dean Smith's side, and has every right to feel hard done by after a lack of game time in this year's campaign.

Middlesbrough have been impressive in recent weeks, and have moved clear of the relegation zone after an unbeaten run which has stretched to five league games.

We look at TWO pros and TWO cons to Middlesbrough registering their interest in signing Chester in this month's transfer window.

Pro: He's a real leader. 

Chester captained Aston Villa when available for selection when they won promotion into the Premier League last season under Dean Smith's guidance.

Middlesbrough have young members in their squad this season, and the likes of Hayden Coulson and Dael Fry could learn a considerable amount from someone of Chester's experience.

If Chester was to sign for Middlesbrough, then he could have a positive impact both on and off the pitch.

Con: What does this mean for Daniel Ayala's future? 

Ayala is out of contract at the end of this season, and it remains to be seen as to where his future lies with Middlesbrough at this moment in time.

If Chester was to arrive, then it could hint that Ayala's future is away from Middlesbrough, which surely wouldn't sit well with the club's supporters.

Middlesbrough must think about any potential impact that this deal could have on Ayala's future.

Pro: Chester is experienced in the Championship. 

Chester made 28 appearances for Aston Villa in their promotion-winning season last term, and will be keen to get back into action in the near future.

A move to Middlesbrough could be ideal for him as well, as it would present him with the opportunity of regular game time in the Championship.

He'd be a smart addition for Boro, and Jonathan Woodgate will be well-aware of what the Welshman can bring to his side in the future.

Con: The cost of any potential deal. 

As previously mentioned, Chester is an experienced defender that is capped at international level with Wales' senior side.

Even though he's down the pecking order, Villa aren't likely to allow him to leave on the cheap, especially when they could potentially be relegated back into the Championship this season.

You have to feel as though there might be more effective and cheaper options out there this month for Middlesbrough.